Random and not so random musings from a 5th generation NE Missourian who became a 1st generation Episcopalian. Let the good times roll!

Pray for my friend A. She and her family have decided to remove the respirator and IV's from her grandmother, who has suffered several strokes and cardiac events. Even though at this point, the decision is not as hard as it could be, it is still difficult because it involves letting go of someone you love and want to keep near you forever, if you could.

I have a notion that comforts me when I have either been a family member or extended family member in the discussion of these situations. I sort of imagine the soul of a terminal person being kept alive by artificial means as sitting in a sort of "nether place of awareness", where they can see both sides. They are aware of, but unable to communicate with those in the world around them, yet can see a bigger glimpse of the world to come than they could when they were conscious and aware. I want to believe that their soul cries out to be released from that spot, to be allowed to go to one world or the other, Perhaps they hear the call of light perpetual bidding them to come, and they WANT to go to that place, but here in this world, our human struggles and desires in making the decision to withdraw care is the only thing keeping them from making that journey. When we decide to let them go, we free them to embrace that Light.

I have always been comforted by the thought at the time we have withdrawn care from my own loved ones that the dying person's soul says "Thank you" and runs toward the light perpetual.

I saw a prayer in the Church of England's Common Worship book that seems fitting for this:

Lord,in weakness or in strengthwe bear your image.We pray for those we lovewho now live in a land of shadows,where the light of memory is dimmed,where the familiar lies unknown,where the beloved become as strangers.Hold them in your everlasting arms,and grant to those who care a strength to serve, a patience to persevere, a love to last and a peace that passes human understanding.Hold us in your everlasting arms,today and for all eternity;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.